4 GIT Causes of abdominal pain:
What Residents of Houston Should Know
Anybody, anytime, can hit the abdominal pains. Stomachache can spoil your plans whether you are getting tacos at Montrose or dining in the Heights. At Gastrodoxs we think that when you know what makes you feel bad, you are more likely to feel better sooner.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri gave the best 4 causes of digestive abdominal pains in this guide. We will discuss them in simple terms, provide the signs of warning and provide means of relief. Let's dive in!
Quote by Dr. Bharat Pothuri "The most frequent presentation of patients to my clinic in Houston is abdominal pain, says Dr. Pothuri. We need to treat it more quickly by finding the root cause such as GERD or gallstones.
Section 1: Gaining an understanding of Digestive Abdominal Pain
Where It Hurts Matters
- Above the ribs: stomach, gallbladder, pancreas
- Lower abdomen: intestines or colon
- General pains: may be gas, indigestion or stomach virus
How It Feels
- Sharp or stabbing
- Dull or achy
- Cramping
- Burning
Calling a Doctor as soon as possible
- Severe, constant pain
- Fever over 101 degree F
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Sudden weight loss
Section 2: Cause: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
What Is IBS?
IBS is a permanent disease of large intestine. It leads to cramping, gas, bloating and bowel modification.
Symptoms
- Lower belly crampy pain
- Bloating after eating
- The diarrhea or constipation (or both)
- Mucus in stool
Why It Happens
- Food sensitivities
- Stress or anxiety
- Difficulty in connecting the gut-brain
Dr. Pothuri's Tip:
"Try a food diary. My patients in Houston find out that dairy or greasy foods are the triggers of symptoms.
Simple Ways to Feel Better
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Reduce gassy foods such as cabbage and beans
- Attempt fiber supplements (such as psyllium)
- Breathe deeply or do yoga
Section 3: Cause of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is classified
What Is GERD?
GERD occurs when esophagus is filled with stomach acid. It brings about heartburn and other symptoms.
Symptoms
- Chest pains as burning
- Sour taste or food coming up
- Sore throat or hoarseness
- Worse when lying down
Why It Happens
- Sphincter Weakness of lower esophagus
- Being fat or having a bad diet
- Smoking or drinking alcohol
Dr. Pothuri's Tip:
"Spicy foods are delicious although they may aggravate GERD. Watch out in Houston hot food restaurants."
Ways to Find Relief
- Totally avoid trigger foods: citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint
- Don't eat 2-3 hours before bed
- Raise your bed head by 6-8 inches
- Try antacids or H2 blockers
Section 4: Cause #3 Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
What Is It?
Peptic ulcer is a wound on the stomach or the upper intestine. It brings about burning sensation, particularly in between meals.
Symptoms
- Far-away aching or pains at night or when hungry
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling full quickly
- Bleeding (in severe cases)
Why It Happens
- H. pylori infection
- Excessive use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
- Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Dr. Pothuri's Tip:
"H. pylori is easy to detect. It is usually conformed by a breath test."
Treatment Tips
- In case of a positive H. pylori, take as per your doctor
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) should be avoided or discussed with your physician
- Reduce the amount of coffee and spicy food
External Link
NIH on Peptic Ulcers
Section 5: Cause #4 Gallstones
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are solid masses which develop in your gallbladder. They are able to obstruct the flow of bile and cause pain.
Symptoms
- Pain in the upper right belly is sharp
- Pain to the back or shoulder
- Fatty meals make one sick or vomit
- Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
Why It Happens
- Excess cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile
- Gallbladder does not empty completely
- Risks: overweight, dietering, fatty diet
Dr. Pothuri's Tip:
"Summers can make a person dehydrated in Houston, and this causes bile to thicken increasing the risk of gallstones."
How to Feel Better
- Select lean meat and vegetables
- Consume lots of water particularly during summer
- In case the pain continues to recur, consult an expert
Section 6: Rapid Comparison Table
| Characteristic | IBS | GERD | Peptic Ulcers | Gallstones |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain Location | Lower belly | Chest or upper belly | Upper middle belly | Upper right belly |
| Type of pain | Cramping | Burning | Burning/gnawing | Sharp, sudden |
| Triggers | Food, stress | Spicy food, lying down | NSAIDs, H. pylori | Fatty food, dehydration |
| Relief | Fiber, relax | Antacids, diet changes | Antibiotics, avoid NSAIDs | Low-fat food, hydration |
| Urgent Care Needed? | Rare | If severe | If bleeding | If jaundice or severe |
Section 7: Palliative Care Disruptive Behaviors
Eat a Balanced Diet
- Select lean proteins, fruits, veggies, whole grains
- Avoid fried and processed food
Watch Portion Sizes
- Use smaller plates
- Eat slowly and chew well
Stay Hydrated
- Drink 8-10 cups of water daily
- Limit alcohol and caffeine
Manage Stress
- Do some meditation or breathing
- Be on the move either by walking or yoga
See Your Doctor
- Get a yearly checkup
- Inform your physician of any stomach pain
Section 8: When to See a Doctor
- Pain for more than one week
- Fever over 101 degree F
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Weight loss without trying
- Pain that wakes you at night
Conclusion
The Abdominal pain is a common thing, and the cause is known, which means that you find the way to relieve it. IBS, GERD, peptic ulcers, and gallstones are the 4 leading 4 digestive causes in Houston. You can have control over your gut by making some minor adjustments and with medical help. To get additional assistance, go to Gastrodoxs and learn about our wellness resources.
